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Towline Fuse and Strain Energy Dissipation Device

UW ID: 04-081

Description of Technology

The Towline Fuse and Strain Energy Dissipation Device is a towline fuse device for use in a towing system with a towing vehicle and a towline. The towline fuse device comprises fuse means for failing at a predetermined level of tensile force, the fuse means mounted between the towing vehicle and the towline, wherein the predetermined level of failure of the fuse means is less than the towing ratings of the towing system. Additionally, the device also dissipates strain energy stored in the elastically strained towline.

Applications

The Towline Fuse and Strain Energy Dissipation Device has many potential applications to improve the safety of current towing systems. For example, the device could be used in automotive towing by individuals who use their personal vehicles for various types of towing. The device could also be used in industrial towing operations, especially where safety considerations are high and the forces involved are extremely large. Another potential application is for use in wenches in the automotive industry.

Features & Benefits

This technology can be used to increase the safety of towing a wide array of items for both commercial and industrial uses. In the event of a tow strap break, this technology prevents dangerous whipsawing, and the strap falls limply to the ground.